Abstract
The mediodorsal nucleus (MD) represents just one piece of a complex relay structure situated within the brain, called the thalamus. MD is characterized by its robust interconnections with other brain areas, especially with limbic-related structures. Given the close anatomo-functional relationship between the MD and the limbic system, this particular thalamic nucleus can directly influence various affective behaviors and participate in cognition. In this work, we review data collected from multiple anatomical studies conducted in rodent, human, and non-human primates, highlighting the complexity of this structure and of the neural networks in which it takes part. We provide proof that the MD is involved in the unification of several anatomical structures, being able to process the information and influence the activity in numerous cortical and subcortical neural circuits. Moreover, we uncover intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms that offer MD the possibility to execute and control specific high functions of the nervous system. The collected data indicate the great importance of the MD in the limbic system and offer relevant insight into the organization of thalamic circuits that support MD functions.
Highlights
The thalamus has long been known as an essential sensory relay station that filters information and acts as a gate between the body and the brain
The prefrontal cortex, amygdala, basal ganglia, spinothalamic fibers and olfactory cortex represent the main afferents of the midline group of the thalamic nuclei, while the medial and lateral prefrontal cortices and the orbitofrontal cortex stand for the efferents [2]
This review offers new insight towards the physiological anatomy of the mediodorsal nucleus (MD) and underlies important neural mechanisms that allow MD to exert its role in the brain
Summary
The thalamus has long been known as an essential sensory relay station that filters information and acts as a gate between the body and the brain. The MD carries out its activity mainly in a circuit held within the basolateral amygdala and prefrontal cortex (PFC) and can disconnect the cortex from the medial temporal lobes [3]. Damaging the MD can cause disconnection syndromes that are mediated by the frontal lobes. This fact will negatively affect executive functions, including behavioral flexibility, strategy shifting, and reversal learning [4]. Even though it is recognized that MD supports cognitive and affective activities, the way the neural circuits communicate is still unclear. This review offers new insight towards the physiological anatomy of the MD and underlies important neural mechanisms that allow MD to exert its role in the brain
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
